Teacher Danielle

My name is Danielle and I use she/her pronouns. I feel honored to be a part of the Burien Co-Op community.

I first discovered BCP in 2016 while working as a nanny for a family enrolled in the program, and I knew right away it was a place I hoped to one day call home. Since joining the teaching team in 2020, it has been a privilege to learn and grow alongside the children and families who make this community so special.

In November 2025, my husband, Tori, and I welcomed our first son, Cal. Becoming a parent has deepened my appreciation for the incredible work of early childhood and strengthened my commitment to creating nurturing, joyful spaces where children and families feel seen, supported, and connected.

I graduated from the University of Washington with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Oil Painting and Drawing. Before becoming a preschool teacher, I spent more than a decade as a nanny, most of those years caring for toddlers, and volunteered in the infant room at Childhaven while in college. These experiences shaped my belief that children thrive when they are trusted, respected, and given the freedom to explore.

I wholeheartedly believe that play is the foundation of learning. Through open-ended materials, sensory experiences, art, movement, nature, and meaningful relationships, children build the skills they need to become curious, capable, and compassionate people. I embrace a child-led, play-based approach, knowing that children are naturally driven to investigate, create, and make sense of the world around them.

Every child brings unique ideas, perspectives, and strengths to our classroom. My goal is to create a welcoming "yes" space where curiosity is celebrated, risks are safe to take, and every child feels a true sense of belonging. Together, we'll build a classroom community rooted in wonder, kindness, collaboration, and the joy of learning.

Teacher Alissa

Hello, I am Alissa, and I use she/her/they/them pronouns. I was introduced to BCP in 2023 by an attending family and knew this place was something special!

I began as a parent, served very briefly on the board, and eventually came on as the toddler teacher!

With over five years of experience in early childhood education and a Bachelor's degree in Behavioral Psychology, I am excited to embark on the 2024 school year with a renewed focus on fun and play. My background in psychology equips me with a deep understanding of child development, allowing me to create a nurturing and effective learning environment tailored to each child’s unique needs.

I am dedicated to fostering a playful and engaging classroom where toddlers can thrive through exploration and creativity. My teaching approach emphasizes the importance of play as a fundamental tool for learning and growth, and I strive to make every day an exciting adventure for my students.

My non-traditional family unit consists of my partner Mark, my partner Josie, my toddler Marky, our two dogs (Momo and Little Boy) and myself. In our free time we like to visit family up north, garden outside, go swimming, and help take care of Marky’s great-grandmother Eileen.

Outside of the classroom, I am passionate about community involvement and enjoy volunteering at Sakura Con each spring. This experience allows me to connect with diverse groups and bring new ideas and inspiration back to my teaching practice. I look forward to partnering with families and colleagues to make this school year a memorable and enriching experience for all our little learners!

Teacher Rachelle

Hello! My name is Rachelle (pronounced like Rachel) and I use she/they pronouns. I found Burien Coop after moving to the area and searching for a pre-school program that worked well with my oldest daughter. Even better, what I found is a place where both my girls and myself became part of an amazing community. My oldest graduated from being an Orca and has moved on to the bigger world of elementary school while my youngest continues her journey through BCP.

I graduated with a B.S. in Environmental Education from Western Washington University. My professional career comprises roles focused on education, youth development/outreach and or the environment but usually some combo of all three. From leading child-centered community programs to outdoor preschool educator, I have been working in these spaces with youth ages 3-18 for over 15 years. I am happiest and see the best in who we are when community, environmental care and education converge and thrive.

I aim to foster a space where everyone feels safe and heard while we learn through play and exploration. At the core of my teaching style I focus on experience and community. Having a place where trying new things and making mistakes is an important part of the learning process that I wish to foster. I believe building a community that prioritizes support, acceptance and kindness provides the building blocks for thriving kids.

My partner, Tien and I moved from northern California in 2012 to Washington and knew this is where we belonged. Over the years, we’ve shaped our family and have 2 cats, Oreus and Calcifer, Willow- our black lab and our two girls, Juniper and Hazel. We are a family of nerds and nature lovers. You will usually find me crocheting while we look for frogs and pick flowers or while playing Animal Crossing.